Manchester United supporters have been left watching nervously as another young talent edges closer to leaving Old Trafford this summer.
The Reds’ pre-season and early campaign performances have done little to ease concerns over squad depth, and speculation over transfers has dominated headlines.
Following the humiliating Carabao Cup exit at the hands of Grimsby Town, the pressure on Ruben Amorim and his management team has intensified, highlighting the importance of keeping key players at the club.
Meanwhile, the saga of Kobbie Mainoo continues to capture attention, with the 20-year-old midfielder reportedly at the centre of a high-stakes tug of war between Manchester United and Italian champions Napoli.
According to The Mirror, Napoli are prepared to offer Kobbie Mainoo a four-year contract as they strengthen their squad ahead of a new campaign aimed at defending their Serie A title and making an impact in the Champions League.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTREDEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
The England international has made his intentions clear to United: he wants a permanent move to Serie A before Monday’s transfer deadline, rejecting the possibility of a loan.
United, however, are wary of repeating past mistakes, mindful of the extraordinary impact of another former Old Trafford midfielder, Scott McTominay.
The Scot left for Napoli last summer in a £25million deal under Antonio Conte and has since become a revelation.
McTominay’s performances have propelled him to European recognition, with a string of match-winning displays domestically and in the Champions League earning him a Ballon d’Or shortlist place – the first Scot since Ally McCoist in 1987 – and Napoli’s MVP award in his debut season.
Conte has used McTominay’s quick feet, passing range, and positional intelligence to help Napoli secure the league title, scoring 12 goals in 34 appearances and delivering a decisive strike on the final day of the season.
Kobbie Mainoo believes a similar pathway could open for him under Conte, which has only strengthened his resolve to leave Old Trafford permanently rather than on a temporary deal.
Despite his popularity among United fans and a contract running until 2027, talks over an extension have stalled.
Mainoo played the full 90 minutes during the EFL Cup penalty shootout defeat at Grimsby but was an unused substitute in the opening two Premier League games, with Amorim emphasising he is still competing for a spot alongside skipper Bruno Fernandes.
The coming days will prove crucial as United face a decision over whether to hold on to a promising talent or risk losing him in a lucrative deal to Italy.
